Could Probiotics Help Prevent Upper Respiratory Infections
Could Probiotics Help Prevent Upper Respiratory Infections
By Liz Moon, NP
If you follow our blog, you have seen us write about the gut-brain axis numerous times. Guess what, there is a gut-lung axis (GLA) too! However, it remains less studied than the gut–brain axis. The gut-lung axis concept postulates that alterations of intestinal microbiota communities may have a profound effect on lung disease, according to Dr. Joseph H. Skalski, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at Mayo Clinic.
New research from investigators at Imperial College London suggest, “use of a daily probiotic may protect overweight people from upper respiratory tract infections.” Dr. Benjamin Mullish, who helped conduct the study notes, “Previous research in this area has shown that probiotics may reduce upper respiratory tract infections in healthy adults and children. However, at present, we have little data regarding vulnerable populations, such as those who are older, overweight and people with obesity.”
“In the study, the team found that probiotic use was associated with a 27% lower rate of respiratory symptoms compared with placebo (P<0.0001). Greater reductions in symptoms were seen in probiotic group participants who were older than 45 years and in those who were diagnosed with obesity.”
“Elena Ivanina, DO, an assistant professor of gastroenterology, public health and preventative health with Lenox Hill Hospital of Northwell Health, in New York City, said the study is promising and well designed, but there is not enough evidence to recommend probiotics clinically for the prevention of respiratory infections at this time.”
If you would like to understand more about this growing area of research and how we can help, contact us today! You can request an appointment with one of our Gastroenterologists or Nurse Practitioners through our website at www.compgihealth.com or by phone at 224.407.4400. We look forward to hearing from you!